Emmerdale’s Bradley Riches has updated fans on a huge change to his character Lewis Barton after Gabby Thomas moved out of Dale View. The actor joined the soap earlier this year, as Lewis hunted down information about his mum Emma Barton, who was pushed to her death by Moira Dingle.

Lewis has grown close with several villagers, including Nicola King and Vinny Dingle, whom he has provided an ear to listen to and a shoulder to cry on through his breakup from Gabby.

With Vinny by himself, Kim Tate found him some new housemates in the form of Ross Barton and Lewis.

This change means that Lewis is now living in the village for the first time.

Sharing several snaps alongside Ross actor Michael Parr outside of the iconic house, Bradley wrote in an Instagram post: “Some may call Dale View a ‘lad pad’- I call it Lewis’s Lounge of Luxury. Thanks Kim Tate.”

Vinny actor Bradley Johnson commented, “The best housemates”, while Michael added, “Let the bromance begin!!!”

It comes weeks after Bradley Riches addressed the notion of romance rumours between Lewis and Vinny, as the latter has struggled while exploring his sexuality.

Speaking to Digital Spy on the red carpet at the Inside Soap Awards 2025, Riches said: “[It’s] having someone from the queer community helping him and saying, ‘It’s not weird to think these things. Everyone’s stories are different regarding their sexuality and they have different journeys’.

“It’s very exciting to see that conversation, and how a new friendship might blossom as well.

“It’s nice to see someone who’s not sure about themselves being welcomed by someone who is very sure of themselves.”

Asked whether the connection will remain as a friendship or develop into more, he replied: “Who knows? Only time will tell. I think at the beginning it’s definitely a friendship.

“I mean, every good relationship is based on friendship and that’s a good starting point, definitely!”